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EXCLUSIVE: Robert Rodriguez Talks About His Love For Kickass Female Characters

Mexican American iconoclast Robert Rodriguez writes his female characters strong, fit and ready to rumble. Whether they're holding massive weapons (Michelle Rodriguez in Machete) or wearing them (Sofia Vergara's machine-gun bra in Machete Kills), you best not mess with Rodriguez's ladies. His latest flick, Sin City: A Dame To Kill For, starring Jessica Alba and Rosario Dawson, promises to be full of badass chicas once again.

It's no wonder -- strong women are as much a part of the celebrated director's imagination as they are part of his DNA. Growing up in a Texas home with six women (five sisters and his mama), Rodriguez got a daily dose of female empowerment. And the tradition continues with his eight-year-old daughter, Rhiannon.

Here, Rodriguez discusses his stereotype-defying female characters, the beginning of his work relationship with Salma Hayek, and Rosario Dawson's kick-ass audition for Sin City. Cue the karate chops, explosions and gunpowder residue. Boom!

What comes first -- the character or the actor?

Usually, I have a character already in mind, but since I'm also a writer, once I meet a certain actress, it will really inspire me to cater the role more to her strengths. It evolves quite a bit depending on whom I cast.